There is hereby established the Newtown Cultural Arts Commission. The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission shall consist of nine (9) members.

Section II: Purpose

The purpose of the Newtown Cultural Arts Commission shall be to stimulate, facilitate, coordinate and cooperate with existing organizations for the development of the arts. It shall serve as an information center and focal point in the community for activities in the arts.

Section III: Appointment, Terms and Vacancies

The First Selectman, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, shall appoint nine (9) members. Individuals shall have a broad interest, understanding and appreciation of cultural activities. The term of office shall be for three (3) years. Initially three (3) shall be appointed until January 7, 2007; three (3) shall be appointed for two (2) years and the remaining three for three (3) years. All vacancies shall be filled for the balance of their unexpired term by the First Selectman, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen.

Section IV: Organization

The Commission shall annually elect a Chairperson, a Vice Chairperson, and Secretary.

Section V: Duties and Responsibilities

The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

a) To make an initial survey of the cultural and artistic resources of the Town of Newtown, including but not limited to, a survey of the arts by each subject deemed to be of significance by The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission in carrying out its duties.

b) To make such additional surveys as may be deemed advisable from time to time, of private and public institutions engaged within the Town in artistic and cultural activities.

d) To stimulate and encourage both private and public study and presentation of the performing and fine arts and public interest, support and participation

e) To encourage and assist freedom of artistic expression essential to the arts.

f) To stimulate cooperative and coordinated effort among cultural organizations actively engaged in a single art form.

g) To advise and make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen on matters of cultural significance to the Town of Newtown on at least an annual basis.

Section VI: Financial and Contractual Responsibilities

The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission shall have the following financial powers and duties:

a) To submit a proposed budget to the Board of Selectmen

b) To enter into contracts within the limit of funds available, with individuals, organizations and institutions for services which will further the objectives of The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission.

c) To enter into contracts within the limits of funds available with local, regional, State or Federal Associations for cooperative endeavors.

d) All contracts and agreements must have the prior approval of the Purchasing Authority or the Board of Selectmen.

e) To accept gifts, contributions and bequests of funds from individuals, foundations, companies, corporations and other organizations for the purpose of furthering the objectives of The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission, subject to a Resolution entitled Cultural Arts Commission Gift Fund.

Section VII: Expenditures and Employment Rights

The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission shall:

a) Make expenditures in accordance with the Annual Budget adopted by the Town of Newtown.

b) All monies received in the manner referred to in Section VI, line (e) will be placed in a separate Gift Fund subject to an annual audit and may be expended subject to the majority approval of The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission, subject to a Resolution entitled Cultural Arts Commission Gift Fund.

c) Employ experts and others as may be needed, subject to personnel regulations and limits of the annual Town Budget appropriation for The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission.

Section VIII: Newtown Cultural Arts Auxiliary

The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission is hereby authorized to appoint citizens, but not limited to Newtown residents, who are known for their competency, understanding and devotion to the cultural pursuits, to The Newtown Cultural Arts Auxiliary.

The Newtown Cultural Arts Commission will define the function and duties of The Newtown Cultural Arts Auxiliary significant to the purpose of the Commission.

The purpose of The Newtown Cultural Arts Auxiliary is to assist the commission members in the execution of their duties.